What Kind of Battery Does a 2017 Audi Q5 Take?

The 2017 Audi Q5 typically uses a Group H7 (also known as 94R) 12‑volt AGM or flooded lead‑acid battery, with around 80 Ah capacity and 800+ CCA, and it must be properly registered/coded to the vehicle after replacement. This article explains the exact battery type, key specifications, and what owners should know before buying or installing a new battery.

Standard Battery Type and Size for the 2017 Audi Q5

For most 2017 Audi Q5 models, the factory‑equipped battery is a European‑style, maintenance‑free 12‑volt unit designed to support modern electronics and, in some trims, stop‑start and energy‑management systems. While exact part numbers differ by brand, the fitment standard is generally consistent.

Group Size and Physical Fitment

The crucial starting point is making sure the battery physically fits the Q5’s battery tray and meets Audi’s specifications for dimensions, terminals, and hold‑down points.

This list outlines the common battery group sizes and fitment details associated with the 2017 Audi Q5, helping owners understand what will physically and electrically match the vehicle’s requirements.

• Primary group size: H7 (also called 94R or L4 in some catalogs)
• Approximate dimensions (H7/94R): about 12.4 in (315 mm) length × 6.9 in (175 mm) width × 7.5 in (190 mm) height
• Terminal layout: European “recessed top post” with reversed polarity (positive on the right when terminals face you)
• Tray and bracket: Designed to clamp an H7 battery securely; other sizes (like H6 or H8) may not fit or may need hardware changes

Together, these characteristics mean that most owners should select an H7/94R battery for direct drop‑in compatibility, avoiding fitment issues and ensuring the hold‑down and cables line up correctly.

Chemistry: AGM vs. Flooded Lead‑Acid

The 2017 Audi Q5 was engineered around modern high‑load electrical systems, and many examples either came with an AGM battery from the factory or are best supported by one.

The following list compares the main battery chemistries available for the 2017 Audi Q5 so owners can decide which technology best suits their usage and budget.

• AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat):
  

  • Better suited to vehicles with high electrical demands and frequent short trips
  • Handles deep discharges better and recharges more efficiently
  • More resistant to vibration and leakage; usually recommended for modern German vehicles

• Flooded lead‑acid (conventional):
  

  • Typically cheaper upfront than AGM
  • Acceptable in some trims if specified by the parts catalog, but less robust under heavy accessory loads
  • More sensitive to deep cycling and repeated short‑trip use

• Best practice for a 2017 Q5: Replace AGM with AGM; if the car was originally equipped with AGM, do not downgrade to flooded

In practice, an AGM H7/94R battery is generally the safest and most future‑proof choice for a 2017 Q5, even where a standard flooded unit might technically fit.

Key Electrical Specifications

Beyond physical size, the 2017 Audi Q5 expects certain performance characteristics from its battery to ensure reliable starting and stable operation of its many electronic systems.

Capacity, CCA, and Reserve Capacity

Manufacturers may vary slightly, but most replacement batteries for the 2017 Q5 cluster around comparable performance numbers designed to meet Audi’s requirements.

This list highlights the typical electrical ratings you should look for when choosing a replacement battery for a 2017 Audi Q5.

• Nominal voltage: 12 V
• Amp‑hour rating (Ah): Typically in the 80–95 Ah range; 80 Ah is common and sufficient for most trims
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): Often between about 800 and 900+ CCA (EN or SAE ratings depend on manufacturer)
• Reserve Capacity (RC): Usually around 140–170 minutes, indicating how long the battery can supply power if the alternator fails
• OEM‑style spec: Audi‑branded or VAG‑spec AGM battery with similar Ah and CCA values to the factory unit

Matching or slightly exceeding the original Ah and CCA ratings helps ensure reliable cold starts and stable voltage for the vehicle’s control modules and comfort systems.

Genuine Audi vs. Aftermarket Batteries

Drivers can choose between genuine Audi/VW‑branded batteries and high‑quality aftermarket units from established manufacturers, each approach with its own trade‑offs in price and warranty.

OEM (Genuine Audi/VW) Batteries

Audi dealers typically supply a battery that matches the original factory part number and specification.

This list explains the common characteristics of dealer‑supplied batteries for the 2017 Audi Q5 and why some owners prefer them.

• Exact spec match: Same or equivalent capacity and technology as the original battery
• Integrated support: Dealer usually handles coding/registration with factory tools
• Warranty and documentation: Clear coverage backed by Audi’s parts network
• Higher cost: Typically more expensive than aftermarket options

For owners who prioritize a straightforward, manufacturer‑backed solution and are willing to pay more, an OEM battery from the dealer is often the simplest route.

Aftermarket Batteries

Reputable aftermarket brands often offer batteries that meet or exceed OEM specifications at lower prices.

The next list describes the main considerations when selecting an aftermarket battery for a 2017 Audi Q5.

• Reputable brands: Look for major names that specify H7/94R AGM fitment for the 2017 Q5
• Comparable specs: Match or exceed OEM Ah and CCA ratings, and ensure AGM if the car was supplied with AGM
• Compatibility tools: Many retailers provide online fitment guides keyed to year/make/model
• Installation support: Some shops will handle physical replacement and required coding for a fee

Choosing a quality aftermarket battery can be a cost‑effective choice, provided the part meets the correct group size, chemistry, and performance ratings for the Q5.

Battery Location and Replacement Considerations

While not as complex as some luxury models, the 2017 Audi Q5 still requires care in battery replacement to avoid damaging electronics or triggering persistent warning lights.

Where the Battery Is Located

On the 2017 Q5, the primary 12‑volt battery is located under the hood, usually on the right‑hand (passenger) side near the firewall, under a cover or trim piece designed to protect it from heat and debris.

Registration/Coding After Battery Replacement

The Q5’s energy management system expects to be informed when a new battery is installed, especially if its capacity or type changes.

This list clarifies why coding or registering a new battery matters and what is typically done during the process.

• Battery management system (BMS): Tracks battery age, condition, and charge history to control charging voltage
• After replacement: The new battery should be “registered” or “coded” with a diagnostic tool (such as VCDS, ODIS, or an equivalent shop scanner)
• What coding does: Resets adaptation values, updates battery capacity/type data, and optimizes charging profile
• Consequences of skipping: Potential over‑ or under‑charging, reduced battery life, or sporadic electrical warnings

Having a qualified shop or dealer register the new battery with the vehicle’s control module is recommended to ensure proper charging behavior and longevity.

Basic Safety and Installation Tips

Replacing the battery on a 2017 Q5 can be a DIY job for experienced owners, but it carries risks if done incorrectly, particularly given the car’s sensitive electronics.

The following list offers general precautions and best practices for anyone involved in replacing the battery on a 2017 Audi Q5.

• Preserve vehicle data: Use a memory saver if possible to protect radio presets and some module settings
• Correct disconnect order: Always disconnect the negative terminal first and reconnect it last
• Avoid short circuits: Do not allow tools to bridge terminals or terminals to contact the bodywork
• Secure mounting: Ensure the new battery is firmly clamped to prevent vibration and movement
• Terminal protection: Clean terminals and consider applying dielectric grease or terminal spray to resist corrosion

Taking these steps reduces the risk of accidental damage and helps ensure a smooth transition to the new battery without unexpected electrical issues.

How to Verify the Right Battery for Your Specific Q5

Although most 2017 Audi Q5s share broadly similar battery requirements, individual vehicles may have slight differences based on engine, options, regional specifications, or prior replacements.

Checking the Existing Battery and Documentation

The most reliable way to confirm the correct replacement is to reference the parts and labels specific to your vehicle.

This list outlines practical ways to confirm the exact battery specification for a particular 2017 Audi Q5 before purchase.

• Read the current battery label: Note group size (e.g., H7/94R), Ah rating, CCA, and whether it is AGM
• Consult the owner’s manual: It may specify capacity and technology recommendations
• Use VIN‑based lookup: Dealers or quality parts websites can confirm the correct battery via the vehicle identification number
• Ask a dealer or specialist shop: They can cross‑reference official Audi parts catalogs and regional options

By confirming these details before purchase, owners reduce the chance of buying a battery that physically fits but does not meet the intended specifications for their particular Q5.

Summary

The 2017 Audi Q5 generally takes a European‑style Group H7 (94R) 12‑volt battery, most often in AGM form, with around 80 Ah capacity and 800+ CCA to properly support its electrical and, where equipped, stop‑start systems. While owners can choose between genuine Audi and reputable aftermarket brands, it is important to match the original size, chemistry, and performance ratings, and to have the new battery registered or coded to the vehicle’s battery management system. Verifying the existing battery label, consulting the manual, or using a VIN‑based lookup ensures that the replacement battery is correctly specified for the individual vehicle.